Pattern 1914 (T) Sniper Rifle

History and Images

P-14(T) with the Pattern 1918 telescope

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As World War I progressed, the need for a sniper rifle became apparent. Due to the P14's demonstrated accuracy it was the natural choice for a precision rifle.

Efforts were quickly made to develop a micrometer type back sight to improve upon the P14's natural accuracy. By late in 1917 a windage adjustable micrometer sight was available. These sights were approved for fitting to Winchester made rifles. The Winchester, having proved to be the most reliable and accurate of the three manufacturers. These rifles were designated Pattern 1914 MkI(F), the F denoting Fine Adjustment Sight.

By early 1918 Aldis had developed an off set telescope for the P14 and again only Winchesters were selected for conversion. These rifles never really achieved their total potential. As British sniping techniques of the time were relatively undeveloped and there value unrealized. As World War I ended the P14(T) was mostly downgraded and placed in long term storage.

The P14(T) was not seen again until the outbreak of World War II. Where they performed as an interim sniping rifle, while development of the No4 MkI(T) was being conducted.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Left-side view. The Pattern 1918 telescope was designed by Lord Cottesloe, a prominent member of the NRA (England). This one was made by the Periscopic Prism Co.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As the front mount obscured the serial number, it was re-engraved on the right-hand sight "ear". Only Winchester made rifles were used in this conversion. This one is in the 235XXX range. A fine adjustment iron sight was also fitted to these rifles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This shot illustrates the see-through nature of the scope mount, allowing the battle sight to be used if necessary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The rear, long range aperture was filed off but the dial and pointer was left in place.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A shooter's view. Showing again how the battle sight could be used even with the scope mounted.

Images courtesy of James West.

HOME